When it comes to yoga, there are many different types (from flow yoga to gentle yin yoga). But what do we like the most, especially on those days when we feel like a real challenge? Hot yoga.
We asked expert instructor Penelope Oldfield, Head of Yoga and Pilates at Virgin Active, to answer the questions and share our favourite tried-and-true classes. Namaste!
As the name suggests, it is a yoga practice performed in a heated environment (usually between 90 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit). “The exact temperature can vary depending on the specific type of hot yoga class and the preferences of the instructor or studio,” explains Oldfield.
Oldfield says that applying heat can “increase muscle and joint flexibility, improve circulation, and promote detoxification through sweating. Because heat warms up the muscles, participants can increase flexibility as they move deeper into yoga poses.” She also believes that hot yoga helps “detoxify the body by flushing out toxins and waste through the skin.” Because heat increases heart rate, it can also help improve cardiovascular health and increase endurance.
It also helps with mental exercise. “Hot yoga promotes mental clarity and focus by requiring participants to focus on their breathing and movements in the heat. This helps to increase awareness and provides an opportunity to de-stress.” Oldfield adds that with consistent practice, “it can improve overall strength, balance, flexibility and mental health, making it a well-rounded exercise choice.”
Oldfield noted that Bikram yoga is a special type of hot yoga and the most well-known type of yoga. “Bikram yoga was created by Bikram Choudhury in the early 1970s and consists of 26 poses,” she noted. “Bikram yoga is usually done in a standardized way, with each class following a set schedule.”
Baby, choose clothes that allow your body to breathe! “Choose breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics that wick away sweat and keep you dry,” advises Oldfield. “Lightweight, breathable clothing, like shorts or a tank top, will allow for maximum ventilation and mobility during class. It’s also a good idea to bring a change of clothes for travel to and from the studio.”
“Unfortunately,” Oldfield explains. “Some people should exercise with caution or avoid it altogether,” she said. “Pregnant women should generally avoid hot yoga, as the increase in body temperature and heart rate can cause complications.
“We also recommend that people with existing cardiovascular or respiratory conditions consult with their physician before practicing hot yoga.”
This cozy yet affordable studio in the heart of Soho offers not one, but seven types of hot yoga to choose from: Hot Dharma, Hot Vinyasa, Hot Yin, Hot Yang-Yin, Hot Rocket, Hot Energy Flow, and last but not least… Hot Energy Restore.
Our testers attended a popular Vinyasa Flow class and found the teacher supportive and clear, offering multiple adjustments for each pose. Sure, the facility isn’t super-luxurious or upscale (it’s located in an entertainment center), but that’s what makes it so accessible. Plus, there are lockers, restrooms, showers, and any other amenities you might need.
If you work in central London and want affordable classes to take after work or even during your lunch break, MoreYoga is definitely worth a look.
MoreYoga Soho costs £39 per month for unlimited classes, or you can book one-off classes through ClassPass. There’s also a MoreYoga studio in Victoria.
Situated in the heart of Parsons Green, Hot Spot Yoga is the hottest yoga studio in South West London – literally and figuratively! Both yoga studios offer a range of yoga and Pilates classes in temperatures of around 40°C (105°F) and 60% humidity. The combination of heat and humidity helps the body to stretch deeply and easily, as well as promote sweating, which in turn helps to flush out toxins from the body.
Our tester attended a yoga class at Studio 2 and immediately felt at ease in the bright, cozy space. The teachers are friendly, helpful, and interact with guests throughout the course. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yoga enthusiast, the teachers will guide you through poses and breathing for all levels.
Hot Spot Yoga classes cost £140 per month for unlimited classes, or you can book one-off classes through ClassPass.
Despite being just a stone’s throw from Oxford Street, Virgin Active’s gym in Mayfair is surprisingly spacious – our tester remarked that it felt like a TARDIS. She also noted that the gym offers a wide range of classes, including Pilates and boxing, but hot yoga was proving to be one of the most popular (and for good reason).
The hot yoga classes were taught by Simon Eavis, who she found both helpful and knowledgeable. Overall, she said Virgin Active Mayfair provided not only a physically challenging workout but also a relaxing and restorative experience. She also praised Simon for the “great choice of music and the overall atmosphere” he created during the classes.
Elsewhere in the hotel, you can look forward to top-notch amenities such as a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, steam room and Jacuzzi – the perfect place to unwind after a workout.
Hotpod studios are Europe’s largest yoga business, both independent and owned by a major franchisee. This means that while you can expect the same great classes and iconic big purple tent wherever you go, prices and times may vary. Our tester visited the Brixton studio and said it was the perfect start to her day.
Hotpod Yoga Brixton offers unlimited classes for the first two weeks for £20, with single classes costing £18. Find your nearest Hotpod Yoga studio in London here.
One of the oldest yoga spots in the city, Primrose Hill at Fierce Grace offers a luxurious setting (chandeliers on the ceiling and wooden floors) for those looking to stretch their limbs. There are also showers on site, but be aware that unless you bring your own mat, you’ll have to pay to hire one (£2).
Book a Fierce Grace hot yoga class through ClassPass or try the 14 days unlimited classes offer for £59.
Sometimes, going to a new yoga studio can feel a little daunting, especially if you’re a beginner, but Lumi Yoga says it strives to maintain a community-based atmosphere in all of its classes. It’s all about inclusivity (no matter your age, race, body type, yoga ability… we welcome everyone) and helping yoga students get the most out of their classes.
Lumi Yoga is offering a two-week introductory offer with unlimited classes for £39, or book via ClassPass.
This cosy charity studio not only offers hot yoga (using essential oils), but also has a (mostly) vegan cafe, meaning you have the perfect place to hang out with friends after class.
East of Eden also offers ‘common seats’ in the classroom – these are available at a reduced price of £8 or £10 and are suitable for students who cannot afford the full tuition fees.
Hot yoga classes at East of Eden cost £16 paid in full; click here for more information on the studio and an introductory offer. You can also book via ClassPass.
3Tribes is a fan favorite that offers all forms of hot yoga (from hardcore to flow). Guess what? It’s rated 4.9 stars on ClassPass for a reason!
Book classes at 3Tribes via ClassPass or try the 10 days unlimited classes offer for £40.
The studio offers traditional hot yoga (not fusion or improvised styles) and reviews praise the friendly teachers.
PS: Yoga mats and towels are provided free of charge at this studio (£2 each), so be sure to bring your own if you don’t want to pay.
Try House of Hot Yoga’s introductory offer: 20 days unlimited classes for £40 or book through ClassPass.
Jennifer Savin is the News Editor at Cosmopolitan UK and has won several awards, including Digital Journalist of the Year for her coverage of the issues that matter most to young women. She frequently covers breaking news, cultural trends, health, the Royal Family and more, using her valuable connections to gain access to top experts. She has interviewed everyone from high-profile politicians to A-list celebrities, and has delicately questioned hundreds of people to find out their real stories. Jennifer is also well known for her undercover investigative and campaigning work, including successfully petitioning the government to make changes on issues such as abortion rights and image-based sexual abuse. Jennifer is also a published author, a documentary consultant (she contributed to the BBC’s Deep Fake Porn: Who Will Be Next?) and a patron of the young people’s charity YES. In addition to Cosmopolitan, Jennifer has written for numerous publications including The Times, Women’s Health, ELLE, appeared on podcasts, and has spoken (and moderated) at panels for World Women’s Day, the University of Manchester, and more. In her spare time, Jennifer loves lipstick, leopard print, and ordering takeout for dinner. Follow Jennifer on Instagram, X, or LinkedIn.
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